POLITICS News: VP Contenders for Kamala Harris

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MARK KELLY: THE FAMILIAR FACE

As Vice President Kamala Harris prepares to announce her running mate, the recent AP-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research poll speculates and sheds light on potential candidates. Arizona Senator Mark Kelly emerges as a notable contender, with higher recognition and favorability among Democrats. The limitation could be that about half of Americans still don’t know him, increasing the challenges he might face if selected.

His campaign experience and influential role in immigration and border security make him a strong candidate. In 2020, he won a special election to flip the Arizona Senate seat from Republican control and retained it for a full term two years later. Additionally, his Navy veteran experience and active participation in the Senate Armed Services Committee reinforce his credentials, which could be crucial in influencing the Presidential betting odds. With 45% of Democrats viewing him favorably, Kelly could be a valuable asset on the ticket.

JOSH SHAPIRO: THE LOCAL HERO

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, another favorite, enjoys strong support in the Northeast but remains relatively unknown nationally. The poll indicates that 6 in 10 Americans, including 57% of Democrats, don’t have enough information to form an opinion about Shapiro. However, his local popularity could be a significant advantage in key states like Pennsylvania.

His recent gubernatorial victory and firm stance on various issues have garnered positive attention: in 2022, he defeated Republican Doug Mastriano in a contentious race, showcasing his appeal and political acumen. His prestige and favorability in the Northeast are particularly strong, with 4 in 10 U.S. adults holding a favorable view of him. Combined with his ability to connect with voters in critical areas, this could be essential in the upcoming elections, factors that also intensify the Presidential betting odds.

ANDY BESHEAR: THE UNDERDOG

Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear is less known nationally, with about 7 in 10 Americans without an opinion about him. However, among those who know him, opinions are split: Democrats have a more positive view, with about a quarter expressing favorability. Beshear’s successful reelection campaign in 2023, where he emphasized abortion rights, demonstrates his ability to win in conservative strongholds.

Beshear’s political lineage and proven campaign skills could be valuable in expanding Harris’s appeal among different voter demographics. If chosen, he would need to introduce himself to a broader audience, but his potential to influence voters in traditionally Republican areas could change the campaign’s trajectory.

TIM WALZ: THE NEWCOMER

Although not included in the AP-NORC poll, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz is gaining traction as a possible VP candidate. Despite a recent ABC News/Ipsos poll revealing that about 9 in 10 U.S. adults don’t have enough information to form an opinion about him, his firm stance on various issues and leadership in the Democratic Governors Association quickly make him a significant figure in Harris’s shortlist.

His ability to bring new talking points to the campaign and his recent comment about the Republican ticket have shown potential to energize the base and attract undecided voters. His relative anonymity on the national stage can be both a challenge and an opportunity for the Harris campaign.

As the campaign continues to heat, the stakes for who will be the “chosen one” only increase the anticipation and the Presidential betting odds.